A new national report is providing fresh evidence of something residents and visitors have known for years: the Myrtle Beach region is one of the most desirable places in America.
The 2026 America’s Best Small Cities report from Resonance ranked Myrtle Beach as the #5 Best Small City in America, including #2 for Lovability and #7 for Livability. The rankings reflect both hard data and public perception, measuring everything from quality of life and economic opportunity to destination appeal.
The findings also support an important reality: a strong visitor economy helps create a strong community.
According to Resonance, the places people most want to visit are increasingly the same places they want to live. Myrtle Beach is a prime example. The attractions, restaurants, entertainment venues, parks, beaches and amenities that draw millions of visitors each year also enhance the daily lives of local residents.
Additionally, community feedback gathered through the Collaborate2031 Resident Sentiment Survey reinforces that connection. Among nearly 1,900 Horry County residents surveyed, 67% support efforts to market the region to visitors, recognizing tourism’s role in supporting local jobs, businesses and community investments.
The research also shows that people continue to choose the Myrtle Beach region as a place to call home. Horry County ranked #1 in population growth and domestic migration among peer communities studied, meaning more people are moving here than to any of the comparable markets analyzed.
Opportunities To Make Myrtle Beach Better
At the same time, the data highlights opportunities to build on that momentum. Residents identified priorities such as:
- improving transportation,
- strengthening public safety,
- creating more high-wage career opportunities,
- attracting and retaining talent, and
- expanding attainable housing options.
These are exactly the types of challenges and opportunities that the Collaborate2031 initiative is designed to address. By bringing together community leaders, residents and stakeholders, the effort aims to create a shared roadmap for the future that strengthens economic vitality, quality of life and long-term prosperity.
The message from the research is clear: Myrtle Beach is thriving, people love living here, and tourism continues to play an important role in our success. As Collaborate2031 moves forward, with a full strategy released in fall 2026, the community has an opportunity to build on its strengths and ensure the Grand Strand remains a place where residents, businesses and visitors can thrive for generations to come.
